Cuomo expects blind voting for casino sites

Updated 9:35 pm, Thursday, December 20, 2012

ALBANY — Gov. Andrew Cuomo made it clear on Tuesday that he doesn't expect voters to know prospective sites for casinos in advance of voting on a constitutional amendment to legalize gambling halls.

Taking questions at the Capitol after a cabinet meeting, Cuomo said he wants aggressive and creative casino proposals from gambling companies that want to develop in the best places in New York to set up facilities.

His view contrasts with that of many lawmakers who think the public should know where the casinos could go before voting on an amendment. The constitutional amendment resolution, which passed earlier this year and needs to pass again before being put before voters, calls for up to seven casinos being allowed statewide.